Better data to unlock better deals for consumers

The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko has published a proposal to make better data available to unlock better power deals for consumers.

The proposal - Enabling consumer mobility by improving access to electricity product data - seeks feedback on options to improve access to product data and make it easier for consumers to choose the right power plan, switch between power companies, and save money.

General Manager Retail and Consumer Andrew Millar says the Electricity Authority is working with the sector to change the current settings as they are no longer adequate and are stopping consumers from getting the choice and value they deserve.

“The lack of standardised data and access rules in the electricity sector is a major barrier to helping consumers get the best possible plan.

"Better data will unlock better deals. With clear formats and rules for how data is shared, trusted third party providers will be able to do the hard work for consumers while ensuring everyone benefits. This will open up real choice and value to everyone – no matter how much time or digital know-how they have,” Millar says.

The proposal also contributes to the electricity sector’s readiness to implement the Government’s intended Consumer Data Right (CDR) for electricity.

“AI-enabled services, improved data sharing, and a potential future CDR will ensure consumers and their agents have the information and data they need to make better decisions,” says Millar.

The Authority will shortly publish a Consumer Mobility Roadmap to provide actions and timeframes for other key initiatives - including proposed changes to consumption data standards and electricity bill information - that will work together to give consumers what they need to manage their energy well.

We welcome your feedback on our proposal by 5pm, Tuesday 12 August 2025.

We anticipate publishing final decisions on this proposal by the end of this year.